A NEW sexual health clinic has opened in Morpeth, bringing a former surgery back into use.

Morpeth Clinic, which is run by Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, has opened in the former Gas House Lane GP facility.

The doctors moved out after the premises were damaged by flooding in 2008, but now Northumberland Sexual Health Service is using the base as its headquarters after relocating from Blyth.

The clinic houses administration staff and functions such as the new appointment, results and advice line for the county, as well as providing office space for healthcare professionals.

It is also a training venue for GP and community nursing staff, while clinical sessions include contraception, screening and treatment of sexually-transmitted infections, and information on pregnancy and sex therapy.

The relocation aims to improve access to sexual health services.

Lead Sexual Health Specialist Nurse Joanne Coyne said: “We are delighted to improve access to a wider range of sexual health services under one roof for Northumberland residents in this new modern facility.

“Anyone can come to see us if they’re worried about any symptoms they’ve got, or if they need advice, contraception, or just a sexual health check-up. We hope that by having our clinic in such a busy location we will encourage more people to think about taking care of their sexual health.

“Our service is free, confidential and open to everyone.”

Northumberland Sexual Health Service continues to provide clinics across the county. For advice call 01670 515151.